How do I know if my engine mounts need replacing?

Engine mounts typically need replacement when you notice persistent vibrations, clunking noises, or visible engine movement; damaged mounts can crack, tear, or become oil-soaked, reducing their ability to dampen vibration.

Symptoms to watch for

These signs are the most commonly reported by drivers and technicians when mounts begin to fail. Look for a combination of movement, noise, and vibration.

• Excessive engine movement or “slop” when you rev the engine or go over bumps


• Rumbling or vibrating sensations through the cabin, especially at idle or in gear with the brake applied


• Clunking, banging, or thudding noises during acceleration, deceleration, or when turning


• Visible engine movement or misalignment of components under the hood


• Oil or other fluid contamination on the mounts, which can degrade rubber or polyurethane


• Rough idle or fluctuating engine feel in certain RPM ranges

When several symptoms appear together, it is a strong signal to seek a professional inspection; a single issue can sometimes point to another problem.

Common mount types

Engine and transmission mounts come in several designs; understanding the basics helps explain what you might feel or hear.

• Front engine mount (primary cushion between engine and chassis)


• Rear engine mount (often near the firewall, dampens engine sway)


• Transmission mount (absorbs drivetrain movement and keeps the transmission in place)

Knowing the architecture of your car’s mounts can help you discuss the issue more accurately with a technician.

How to diagnose at home

Before you head to a shop, you can perform basic checks to gauge whether the problem is likely mounts. These checks are not a substitute for professional diagnosis.

• Visual inspection for cracks, tears, or obvious damage to rubber or polyurethane parts


• Check mounting bolts and brackets for looseness or visible damage


• Observe engine movement and noise in safe conditions, such as with the hood open and the engine running in a low-load state


• Note any clunks, bangs, or thuds when applying throttle, braking, or turning sharply

These checks can indicate a problem, but a definitive diagnosis requires hands-on inspection by a qualified mechanic, often with the engine supported and the vehicle on a lift.

Professional diagnosis steps

What a shop typically does to confirm a failing mount.

• Physically lift and support the engine to relieve load and inspect each mount


• Test movement of individual mounts and check for play in bushings


• Inspect for oil leaks or other contamination that could degrade rubber mounts

Bottom line: if professional tests confirm worn mounts, plan replacement to prevent additional wear on the engine, exhaust, and drivetrain components.

Replacement options and costs

Once diagnosis confirms failure, consider these practical factors before proceeding with a repair.

• Number and type of mounts to replace: Most cars use two engine mounts and one transmission mount; replacing all worn mounts is common to restore proper balance and alignment


• OEM vs aftermarket: OEM mounts fit exactly but can cost more; quality aftermarket mounts can be a cost-effective alternative, with varying guarantees


• Labor and price ranges: Parts price plus labor varies by vehicle and region; replacing a full set can range from several hundred up to around a thousand dollars or more depending on accessibility and vehicle

Tip: Ask for a written quote that breaks out parts, labor, and any related services (like bracket replacement or alignment checks). Prompt replacement can prevent further drivetrain damage and restore smooth operation.

Summary

Engine mounts play a critical role in isolating vibration and keeping the engine properly aligned. If you notice persistent cabin vibration, unusual noises, or visible engine movement, it’s a sign to have a professional inspection. While home checks can guide your decisions, a certified mechanic should confirm the diagnosis and perform replacement to ensure correct torque, fit, and safety. Replacing mounts promptly protects the engine, transmission, exhaust, and overall driving comfort.

Can you drive with bad motor mounts?

You can likely drive with bad motor mounts for short distances, but it's risky and not recommended, as continued driving can cause more damage and lead to dangerous situations. The longer you wait to fix them, the greater the chance of causing additional, costly damage to the engine, transmission, and other connected components. It is best to get the mounts inspected and replaced as soon as possible.
 
This video explains the symptoms of bad engine mounts and how to locate them: 46sMake It Easy MechanicYouTube · Dec 8, 2023
Risks of driving with bad motor mounts

• Increased vibration and noise: You will likely feel more vibrations, especially when accelerating, and hear loud clunks or grinding noises. 
• Damage to other components: The excessive engine movement can cause other parts to shift, potentially damaging or breaking hoses, vacuum lines, brake lines, and electrical harnesses. In severe cases, this could lead to a fire or loss of power brakes. 
• Accelerated wear: Driving with bad mounts puts extra stress on the remaining good mounts, potentially causing them to fail sooner. 
• Engine failure: In the worst-case scenario, the engine could shift dramatically and fall out or cause other catastrophic damage. 

What to do

• Drive minimally: If you must drive, do so as little as possible until you can get it fixed. 
• Get a professional diagnosis: A mechanic can properly assess the damage and advise on the best course of action. 
• Replace all mounts: When one mount is bad, it is often recommended to replace all of them at the same time to avoid future problems. 

This video explains how to diagnose bad motor mounts: 57sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · May 18, 2021

What are the symptoms of worn engine mounts?

Symptoms of bad motor mounts include excessive vibrations and shaking, especially at idle or when shifting gears, as well as clunking, thudding, or banging noises from the engine bay when the vehicle is started, stopped, or accelerated. Other signs are noticeable engine movement when shifting into drive or reverse and a bumpy ride, where the engine can be seen to visibly rock or move more than usual.
 
Vibration and shaking 

• Excessive vibration: You will feel excessive shaking, especially at idle, in the steering wheel, or through the vehicle's floorboards. 
• Vibration when shifting: A noticeable jolt, thud, or vibration when shifting into reverse or drive is a classic sign. 
• Jerking: The car may feel like it jerks or lurches when starting, shutting down, or accelerating, particularly from torque changes. 

Noise

• Clunking or banging: You might hear a loud clunk or bang, especially when putting the transmission into gear or when accelerating from a stop. 
• Thudding: A thud from the engine bay, particularly on startup or shutdown, can indicate a problem. 

Engine movement

• Visible engine movement: The engine can be seen to move, rock, or sway more than normal, particularly when accelerating or shifting gears. 
• Unsafe cornering: In severe cases, a broken mount can allow the engine to swing excessively during turns, creating a wobbling sensation and unsafe cornering. 

Other symptoms

• Fluid leaks: Some fluid-filled mounts may leak, indicating they have failed. 
• Loose parts: The excessive vibration can cause other components like hoses and fasteners to loosen over time. 

Is it expensive to replace engine mounts?

Replacing engine mounts is moderately expensive, with the total cost for a single mount typically ranging from $400 to $500, but potentially costing much more depending on the vehicle. The wide price range is due to parts costs varying from about $10 to over $600 and labor costs, which can range from $100 to over $450 per mount, depending on its accessibility. 
You can watch this video to learn about the symptoms of bad motor mounts and their replacement cost: 47sFixITYouTube · Feb 5, 2025
Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle Make and Model: The price varies significantly depending on the vehicle. Commuter cars are on the lower end, while larger or more complex vehicles with hydraulic or electric mounts can cost thousands of dollars. 
• Parts Cost: The cost of the mount itself varies by type. 
  • Simple mounts: A basic steel or rubber mount can be between $10 and $150. 
  • Advanced mounts: More complex hydraulic or active mounts can cost between $50 and over $600. 
• Labor Costs: This is often the largest portion of the total cost. 
  • Labor time: A mount that is easy to access might take about 30 minutes to an hour, while a buried one could take two or more hours to reach and replace. 
  • Labor rate: The hourly rate charged by the mechanic or shop can vary by location. 
• Number of Mounts: The total price will increase if you need to replace more than one mount. 

How to manage the cost

• Shop around: Get quotes from several mechanics, as prices can vary significantly between shops. 
• Ask about labor estimates: Inquire about how long the repair is expected to take, as this is a major cost driver. 
• Consider DIY: If you are mechanically inclined, replacing engine mounts can be a DIY project, but it requires proper tools like a jack or engine hoist to safely support the engine. You can save on labor costs this way. 

At what mileage do engine mounts go bad?

Factory/OEM spec engine mounts are usually made from rubber and will typically last up to 100,000 miles assuming the vehicle has been reasonably maintained.